Devastating effects of DANA in Valencia: Reflecting on climate change

Recent storms in the Valencia region have left devastation in their wake that has touched the entire community. DANA (Depression Isolated at High Altitudes) dumped massive amounts of water, especially in Valencia, causing flooding, destruction and, most tragically, loss of life. Images of flooded streets, cars swept away by the current and entire neighborhoods under water have circulated the web in recent hours. Jorge Olcina, professor of geography and director of the Climatology Laboratory at the University of Alicante, shared his expertise on the phenomenon on the Más de uno Alicante program, highlighting the alarming frequency and intensity of such events.

Olcina noted that although the region has faced episodes of torrential rain before, such as when the Tous dam broke in 1982, the current situation is of a different nature. This time, the intensity of the rainfall was a direct result of the huge amount of water dumped in a short period of time, rather than a breakdown in infrastructure. Meteorologists have observed that storms are becoming more extreme and more frequent, with tornadoes and hailstorms unprecedented in the region. The cause, Olcina noted, is a change in atmospheric conditions related to the warming of the Mediterranean Sea.

As of Monday night, the Spanish Meteorological Agency (AEMET) has issued a red alert in Valencia. In such olcina's cases underscore that it is crucial to be cautious, as a red alert means a recommendation to stay indoors to avoid risks. This atmospheric phenomenon highlights the need to take warnings seriously and recognize that nature can turn daily routines upside down.

The Mediterranean, known for its mild climate, is also becoming the scene of catastrophic storms as instability increases. Comparing these events to images of hurricanes in America, Olcina stresses that we should be prepared for such episodes to increase. Extreme weather has become a reality in Spain, and not just in other continents.

Olcina took the opportunity to draw attention to the importance of climate change adaptation. According to him, ignoring climate change or delaying investment in adaptation increases not only material risks, but also risks to human life. In the expert's words: "denialism causes fatalities," reminding us that spatial planning and emergency management are essential.

The province of Alicante avoided a direct hit this time thanks to the direction of the winds, which diverted the storms to the north. However, Olcina warns that such a fortunate situation may not be repeated in the future, as the entire Mediterranean coast is vulnerable to such phenomena. These types of events should not just move us when they happen - they should motivate us to take action to reduce risks in the future.

DANA, which affected Valencia, is evidence of the effects of climate change in our region and the vulnerability of coastal areas to extreme weather events. The public and authorities have a shared responsibility to be prepared and aware that these events could intensify and become more violent. Meteorological forecasts are crucial to saving lives, and following the recommendations is essential to reduce the impact of these phenomena.